Doing laundry can be a tedious chore. We all want to get it done as quickly and efficiently as possible. One common question is whether it’s okay to dry colored and dark clothes together in the dryer. The short answer is yes, you generally can dry colors and darks together without any issues. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind.
The General Rule
The general rule of thumb is that most colored and dark laundry items can be dried together in the same load. The heat and tumbling action in the dryer help to set the dyes in fabric so they don’t bleed significantly onto other clothes. However, there are always exceptions with certain fabrics and garment types that are more prone to bleeding color, which we’ll discuss next.
When to Separate Colors and Darks
While it’s generally safe to dry colors and darks together, there are a few instances when it’s better to separate them into different loads:
- Brand new, very dark fabrics – The first few times you dry a new very dark item like black pants or a navy dress, it’s best to dry it alone or with only other blacks or darks. The dye may not be fully set and could bleed onto lighter colors.
- Red fabrics – Bright red items are notorious for bleeding pink onto other clothes. It’s best to dry these separately the first few times.
- Delicates and lace – Very delicate fabrics like lace or silky items are more prone to snagging and should be dried separately from sturdy cottons and linens.
- Items prone to lint – Fuzzy sweaters and towels can leave lint behind on clothes. Dry these separately from items that attract lint.
Tips to Prevent Bleeding and Fading
If you want to be extra cautious about dyes bleeding or colors fading, here are some tips:
- Wash and dry similar colors together – Lighter shades with lighter shades, darker with darker.
- Turn clothes inside out – This prevents rub-off from direct contact with other items.
- Use lower heat settings – High heat can be rough on fabrics and cause excess fading.
- Remove promptly – Don’t leave damp clothes sitting in the dryer as heat can still cause fading.
- Use dryer sheets – They help reduce friction and dye transfer.
- Wash with cold water – Hot water can cause more bleeding and fading.
When to Line Dry
For some clothing items, air drying is recommended over machine drying to prevent shrinking, damage or bleeding. Things like:
- Sweaters and knit fabrics
- Brightly colored prints and patterns
- Delicate silks and lace
- Spandex fabrics like swimwear
- Heavy outerwear like wool coats
While line drying takes longer, it is a gentler approach for fabrics prone to heat damage in the dryer. Use drying racks or clothes lines to air dry these items.
Dryer Setting Recommendations
What dryer setting should you use for drying colors and darks together? Here are some recommendations:
| Dryer Type | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Gas dryer | Medium or permanent press |
| Electric dryer | Low to medium |
| Dryer with moisture sensor | Regular cycle with auto moisture sensing |
The medium or permanent press settings prevent over-drying which can damage fabrics. Low heat is gentler for colors. Moisture sensors automatically end the cycle when clothes are dry.
Drying Darks and Colors Together
When drying your darker color laundry together, keep these tips in mind:
- Shake clothes out – This prevents balling up which can cause uneven drying.
- Check pockets – Remove items like tissues that can lint.
- Clean lint filter – A dirty filter slows drying.
- Load loosely – Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation.
- Dry similar fabric types together – Heavy and light fabrics dry at different rates.
- Check load halfway through – Redistribute if needed for even drying.
Adding Dryer Sheets
Using dryer sheets can help reduce static cling and wrinkling, as well as prevent colors from bleeding. When adding a dryer sheet:
- Use one sheet per load. More is not better.
- Put it at the start of the cycle. It needs time to activate.
- For a liquid fabric softener, add it to the rinse cycle or dispenser.
- Avoid fabric softener on towels. It reduces absorbency.
- Skip softener with athletic and water-resistant fabrics.
Caring for Black Clothes
Black fabrics are prone to fading and pilling. To keep them looking their best:
- Wash in cold water using a colour protecting detergent.
- Hang dry when possible or dry on low heat.
- Wash black jeans inside-out.
- Use a lint brush to remove pills.
- Avoid using chlorine bleach.
Caring for Bright and Vivid Colors
Keep bright and vividly colored clothes looking vibrant by:
- Washing in cold water.
- Drying on a lower heat setting.
- Turning clothes inside out when drying.
- Use a color safe bleach if needed.
- Hang-drying when possible.
Conclusion
In most cases, you can safely dry your colored and dark laundry in the same load using medium or low heat settings. Separate out any brand new darks, bright reds, or delicates the first few washes. Use dryer sheets to prevent bleeding. Take extra care with darks and brights by line drying when possible and using a gentle cycle. With a little caution, you can efficiently dry mixed colors and darks together.
